When we consider the world of One Piece, or its alignment with Hollywood connections, it is interesting to see how characters might be epitomized by iconic movie personas. Although the creator of the manga and anime himself borrowed from real-life actors, such as Steve Buscemi for Sanji, we might also align these beloved pirates with the movie characters of yesteryear.
Monkey D. Luffy, the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, is often referred to as the young Indiana Jones. Both share an insatiable thirst for adventure and have a habit of defying impossible situations. Luffy's straw hat is just as iconic as Indy's fedora, with both characters possessing an unrelenting resolve that carries them through their indomitable trials.
The expert swordsman in the crew, Zoro, looks so much like Zorro that it’s almost eerie. Firstly, there is the similarity in their names, and then the fact that both characters are great swordsmen with strong notions of justice. His three-sword style, in some respects, could even be envisaged as a further step up from the swashbuckling Zorro. Both are known as characters who command incredible skills with a blade and strike fear into the hearts of enemies.
Nami, the crew’s navigator and thief, could be likened in a certain way to Catwoman from the Batman universe. Both are capable thieves with complex morals who often operate in shades of gray. Nami's slyness and ability to manipulate situations to her favor seem to mirror Catwoman's cunning nature and adaptability.
There is a definite similarity between Usopp and Pinocchio, the remarkable liar-marksman of the pirate crew and the puppet from the famous fairy tale. While Pinocchio’s nose grows longer whenever he tells a lie, Usopp finds himself unable to resist telling tall tales. Both start as relatively cowardly characters who grow stronger through their ordeals, learning the value of truth and friendship.
Sanji, with his passion for both food and women, might be considered the James Bond of the pirate world. With his way with women, sophisticated hand-to-hand combat abilities, and ever-present charm, he embodies many of 007's characteristics. His coolness under pressure, composure in the face of danger, and dedication to his crew make him akin to Bond in his commitment to the mission at hand.
The reindeer doctor Tony Tony Chopper shares something in common with Dr. Dolittle, as both are doctors with a special ability: the power to communicate with animals. Chopper’s ability to transform into multiple forms can be seen as an extension of Dr. Dolittle's deep bond with animals.
Nico Robin, the archaeologist with the ability to sprout extra limbs, is reminiscent of Lara Croft from Tomb Raider. Both are intellectual geniuses and capable women with a deep passion for ancient civilizations and their artifacts. Robin's enigmatic past and her skill in deciphering ancient languages mirror Lara's adventurous spirit and archaeological prowess.
Franky, the cyborg shipwright, is like the Terminator with a heart. Both are half-machine, incredibly strong, and fiercely loyal to their allies. Franky's catchphrase could be seen as a more optimistic version of the Terminator's infamous "I'll be back."
Brook, the skeletal musician, has something in common with Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas. Both characters have a unique perspective on life—or in Brook’s case, afterlife. Their ability to see the bright side of even the most macabre situations makes them endearing.
Jinbe, the Fishman Helmsman, could be seen as their Aquaman. Stronger than what is humanly possible and able to communicate with sea creatures, there are many similarities between these lords of the deep, aside from their shared sense of justice and leadership.
Trafalgar D. Water Law, the cunning "Surgeon of Death," shares a few parallels with Dr. Stephen Strange of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Both are exceptional surgeons with rare powers and a strategic mind. Law, like Dr. Strange, can manipulate objects and people within the "Room" he creates. Cool and calculating, he makes for an intriguing anti-hero.
Portgas D. Ace, Luffy's beloved brother, is reminiscent of Maverick from Top Gun. Both are charismatic, headstrong, and fiercely loyal to their comrades. Ace's struggle with his lineage as the son of Gol D. Roger mirrors Maverick’s struggle with his father’s legacy.
Boa Hancock, the powerful and beautiful empress of Amazon Lily, shares qualities with Wonder Woman. Both are strong female leaders from isolated, women-only societies who later step into the larger world. Hancock's ability to turn people to stone with her beauty has a parallel in Wonder Woman's Lasso of Truth.
Admiral Kizaru, with his light-based powers and laid-back nature, could be compared to The Flash. Both possess extraordinary speed, though Kizaru's extremely nonchalant use of his powers contrasts with The Flash's energetic persona. This makes both characters highly effective in battle due to their light-speed abilities.
Silvers Rayleigh, the "Dark King," bears a strong resemblance to Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars. Both are wise mentors who help the protagonist (Luffy/Luke) harness their abilities. Rayleigh's mastery of Haki is comparable to Obi-Wan's control over The Force.
Benn Beckman, the first mate of the Red Hair Pirates, could be related to Sherlock Holmes. Both are highly intelligent and strategic thinkers who analyze situations with precision, much like Holmes uses his deductive reasoning.
Admiral Fujitora, the blind swordsman who manipulates gravity, shares commonalities with Daredevil. Both compensate for their lack of sight with heightened senses and a strong moral compass. Fujitora's inner struggle with justice mirrors Daredevil's complex relationship with the law.
Big Mom, the fearsome and unpredictable Yonko, can be likened to the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland. Both exhibit erratic behavior, a tendency to fly into murderous rages, and a love for sweets. Big Mom's ability to infuse souls into inanimate objects parallels Wonderland’s whimsical and eerie nature.
Sabo, Luffy’s other sworn brother, shares similarities with Jason Bourne. Both experienced amnesia and later revealed their true identities. Sabo's revolutionary work aligns with Bourne's search for truth and justice.
Shanks, a Yonko held in high regard and Luffy's childhood idol, is comparable to Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings. Both are noble leaders who command loyalty and play crucial roles in shaping their respective worlds' destinies. Shanks' missing arm symbolizes sacrifice and strength, much like Aragorn's reforged sword.
Donquixote Doflamingo, the manipulative former Warlord, parallels the Joker from Batman. Both are complex villains with a flair for showmanship and the ability to manipulate those around them. Doflamingo's string-based powers are akin to the Joker's manipulation of events.
Charlotte Katakuri, the powerful son of Big Mom, could be compared to Boba Fett from Star Wars: both are stoic, skilled warriors with a strong sense of honor. Katakuri's ability to see into the future adds a layer of mystique similar to Boba Fett's reputation as an unbeatable bounty hunter.
Kozuki Oden, the legendary samurai of Wano, is reminiscent of Maximus from Gladiator. Both are larger-than-life heroes who sacrifice everything for their people, inspiring awe and leaving a lasting legacy. Oden's legendary deeds, like holding his retainers aloft while boiling in oil, evoke the heroism of Maximus.
Rob Lucci, the formidable CP9 agent, could be likened to Agent Smith from The Matrix. Both are cold, efficient enforcers for a corrupt system who believe they are superior to their enemies. Lucci's powers from the Leopard Zoan fruit mirror Agent Smith's relentless pursuit and adaptability.
Eustass Kid, with his magnet-manipulating abilities, shares a resemblance to Magneto from X-Men. Both possess magnetic powers and a rebellious attitude towards authority. The iconic image of Kid with his metal arm evokes Magneto's control over metal.
Finally, the world's greatest swordsman, Dracule Mihawk, could be compared to Marvel's Blade. Both are stoic, supremely skilled swordsmen who exude a dark and mysterious aura. Mihawk's signature black blade, Yoru, is as iconic as Blade's sword.
Oda's influences extend beyond real actors to encompass a broad spectrum of iconic characters and historical figures, contributing to the depth and complexity of One Piece's characters. This rich tapestry of influences is one of the key reasons why One Piece has endured for so long, culminating in its successful transition to live-action with Netflix's recent adaptation.